Key Points
- OpenAI issues subpoenas to Meta regarding Elon Musk’s $97B acquisition bid for ChatGPT
- Meta refutes any negotiations or agreements with Musk or xAI
- Lawsuit underscores escalating competition in AI between OpenAI and Meta
OpenAI has issued subpoenas to Meta in connection with Elon Musk’s proposed $97 billion acquisition of the ChatGPT developer.
According to OpenAI (along with Sam Altman), Meta, or even CEO Mark Zuckerberg himself might have engaged in unofficial communications with Elon Musk and his AI startup xAI regarding potential discussions on acquiring or investing in OpenAI.
The subpoena seeks to retrieve any documents or messages that may indicate Meta’s direct or indirect involvement in the deal. This follows Musk’s public support for the acquisition in February 2025.
A $97B Power Move, Legal Disputes, and the Future of AI
OpenAI’s legal representatives indicated they initially sought documents from Meta in June 2025, but it’s unclear if any were submitted. The defense claims Musk had direct discussions about xAI’s proposal with Zuckerberg, covering potential financial aspects.
Meta has officially denied any involvement, asserting that it did not engage in conversations or sign any intent letters concerning a deal with Musk or xAI.
This legal struggle is intricately linked to OpenAI’s shift from a non-profit to a public corporation, a transition Musk believes contradicts its original mission.
OpenAI is now demanding more extensive documentation pertaining to any organizational restructuring, recapitalization, or strategic shifts at Meta. The court proceedings focus on corporate control of AI, transparency, and competitive practices.
Meta has resisted, arguing that its internal discussions are not pertinent and that Musk and xAI could provide the required information independently.
In the meantime, analysts highlight Meta’s aggressive strategy in AI—developing its own models and reportedly hiring OpenAI engineers, including some involved with ChatGPT—as evidence of a strengthening rivalry among tech giants.
